Summary

Gandalf leads everyone to the foot of Orthanc to parley with Saruman. However, before they begin their parley, Gandalf warns them to beware of his voice, which can convince men to do Saruman's will.

Once they are on the steps of Orthanc, Saruman tries to convince Théoden to stop the war between Isengard and Rohan and join his side. Théoden's men are convinced by Saruman's voice, but Théoden is not and he rejects Saruman. Then, when that tactic fails, Saruman tries to convince Gandalf to join him. However, Gandalf is also not convinced. Instead, Gandalf offers Saruman freedom if he will leave his staff and the keys to Orthanc with Gandalf. However, Saruman refuses the offer, so Gandalf breaks Saruman's staff with a word.

Their parley over, the company leaves the steps. However, just as they are leaving, Wormtongue throws a round stone down...